Boardman River

Near Grand Rapids, Bay City, Traverse City State Park

The Boardman River is located in both Kalkaska and Grand Traverse Counties in the northern region of the state. It is just 18 miles from Traverse City State Park and less than 3 hours from Grand Rapids and Bay City. 

History

In 1847, Captain Horace Boardman bought land on the Grand Traverse Bay. He was the namesake of the Boardman River, previously named Ottawa river. In 1894, the Boardman dam was built to create Boardman Pond and divert the stream. In 2005, Traverse City Light and Power decided it was not economically feasible to produce power from the multiple dams on the river. They then called for them to be removed and for Union Dam to be restored.

Great Fishing and Boating

Popular activities include fishing, boating, and sailing. Multiple species of trout and bass are fished on the Boardman River. Many of these visitors come for the exquisite fishing because it is one of the top ten trout streams in Michigan. 

The Perfect Place to Experience the Outdoors

Whether you are looking for a relaxing waterfront home, or a condo for an outdoors enthusiast Boardman River is a great way to experience the outdoors lifestyle.